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UCB Wireless - FAQ

Last Updated: 05/22/2013

Overview

Frequently asked questions about CU-Boulder's Wireless Network.

General FAQ

How do I register and get online?

After you select UCB Wireless, open a web browser; you should be automatically redirected to - or you can choose to go to - http://dhcp.colorado.edu. The first time you use the network, you will be asked for your CU Login Name and IdentiKey password to register your computer on the wireless network. (If you do not know your IdentiKey, you can enter your employee ID or Student ID, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN.) To help ensure that only campus affiliates use the CU wireless network, you may be asked to update your registration annually. In the future, users may need to authenticate each time they access the wireless network.

What areas of campus have wireless coverage?

Wireless is available throughout the vast majority of the CU-Boulder campus.

What is an SSID?

SSID stands for Service Set Identity/Identifier. It is a name that represents which wireless network a user is attached to. This is also called the "Network Name" by some vendors. CU-Boulder's SSID is "UCB Wireless."

Wireless network security is a serious issue. Wireless is not only a shared medium, but also a medium that is broadcast via radio waves which means that anyone with a wireless card could monitor your network traffic, including your passwords, account numbers, etc. Thus the data is inherently insecure. In order to protect your data, please ensure it is encrypted using SSL, SSH, or VPN. Read more about IT Security, VPN, and Wireless Security.

Do other devices interfere with wireless?

Yes, any 2.4GHz or 5GHz device that is near the wireless access point or wireless card can affect performance and may negatively impact your wireless connection. These devices are usually microwave ovens in close range, cordless phones, cameras and other 2.4GHz wireless devices. A non-University of Colorado access point can interfere with the CU wireless network, so it is necessary to coordinate with OIT if you wish to set up a wireless access point. Deployment or installation of your own Wi-Fi access point is prohibited.

Is wireless bad for my health?

Testing done on wireless network devices indicates no confirmed health risks at this time. You should read the health information provided by your wireless card manufacturer and follow their recommendations.